Indefinite break: Tasmania spinner Jarrod Freeman sidelined with mental health issues

Jarrod Freeman, a fan favourite at Tasmania who represented Australia at Under-19 level, is taking an indefinite break from cricket because of mental health issues.

Tasmanian off-spinner Jarrod Freeman is taking an indefinite break from cricket to deal with mental health issues.

Freeman, 23, has been a regular in the Tigers’ Sheffield Shield side in recent seasons, taking four wickets in the Shield final loss to Western Australia in March.

Cricket Tasmania did not elaborate on Freeman’s situation in a statement released on Thursday.

“Jarrod Freeman will be taking an extended break from playing professional cricket for Tasmania to prioritise his mental health,” CT said.

“Cricket Tasmania extends its support to Jarrod during this leave period and values the importance of mental health.

“The organisation hopes to see him return to cricket in the future.

“Cricket Tasmania continues to support all athletes with appropriate mental health training and education, acknowledging the challenges professional athletes can face throughout their careers.”

Against the backdrop of Freeman’s situation, Tassie landed left-arm tweaker and fringe Test squad member Matt Kuhnemann during the off-season, as well as recruiting Under-19 World Cup-winning off-spinner Rafael MacMillan as a rookie from NSW.